how to network as an introvert

I don’t know about you but when I was younger, I often was asked with a negative tone, “Why are you so quiet?”

I hated it. I was screaming from the inside, “Just let me be!”

But why was I quiet? I was afraid to interrupt, not knowing when it was my turn to speak. I was worried people wouldn’t like what came out of my mouth. I was afraid of conflict. I also wanted to observe those around me first before I opened up.

I’m happy to say that as I’ve grown older, I’ve gotten better at conversing with people I’ve never met before.

What was originally an insecurity has become my superpower. I don’t enjoy the small talk and would much rather dive into thought-provoking conversations or even a silly banter. That’s where I thrive.

So how does one network as an introvert?

If you are shy like me, where interacting with new people is difficult, first don’t be hard on yourself and know that you do not have to be the loudest in the room to be successful or to make a lasting impression on another.

Oftentimes, events can have little groups of people already engaged in conversation. This is not a stop sign to you joining in. Walk up, smile and join in the conversation when there’s space to do so.

Remember everyone attending are there for the same reason as you: to network.

You can also set a goal on how many you will meet so you aren’t overwhelmed when you walk in the door. Literally go in with a number and start small. Once you’ve met that goal - even if just one person - you’ve now conquered that goal and can freely leave the event. Who is going to notice anyways? Even if they did, literally who cares. They don’t know why you left. Maybe you had an emergency, an appointment, etc.

Next event, add +1, so on and so forth.

Another tactic to working the room is by doing it with a friend.

Heck, sometimes it’s easier to root your friend on than your own business. And guess what? They can root you on too.

Don’t yet have a friend in business? Start with the first step of meeting people 1:1 and ask them to join you at an upcoming event so you can work the room together.

“Hey! There looks to be a great networking event in Kirkland. Want to join me and we can grab dinner afterwards?”

Lastly and most importantly, don’t forget to follow up with those new connections within ideally 48 hours. If you’re like me, sending an email is much easier anyhow. Now I have time to think before I speak.

Share with them what stuck out to you during your conversation. Welcome them to a coffee meet-up. Learn about each other. Discover ways you can support one another. You may even thrive 1:1 than finding your space in a packed mixer.

Whatever you do, don’t ever see introversion as a flaw. Find the people that make you feel comfortable, genuinely want to see you win and return the favor. Even one person can change your life and you can change theirs by being the smart, thoughtful, kind person that you are.